Berbatov limped out of the encounter with Serbia, sparking fears the £30.75million record signing had suffered major damage.

However, Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed the 27-year-old has not suffered a tear, although he will also miss Tuesday's Champions League clash with Villarreal and possibly next weekend's Manchester derby.

"It is a slight strain rather than a tear, so that is positive news," said Ferguson.

The United boss also confirmed defender Wes Brown would be out for a "few weeks" after an exploratory ankle operation.

"I would have thought Wes will be out for between four and five weeks, which is disappointing," he added.

"Fortunately we have plenty of cover at right-back, with Gary Neville, Rafael Da Silva and John O'Shea available to come in."

Ferguson also revealed Rio Ferdinand was extremely doubtful to face Villa as he is continuing to be troubled by the back injury which ruled him out of last Saturday's destruction of Stoke plus England's midweek win over Germany.